What is a Census Metropolitan Area?
A census metropolitan area (CMA) is a geographical region consisting of one or more adjacent municipalities situated around a major urban core. A CMA must have a total population of at least 100,000 of which 50,000 or more must live in the urban core. In Canada, a census metropolitan area is defined by Statistics Canada using census data and other information. CMAs are further divided into census agglomerations (CAs) which are clusters of adjacent municipalities that meet certain population thresholds.
How is a Census Metropolitan Area Used?
CMAs are used by various levels of government, businesses, and other organizations to analyze population trends, develop policies, allocate resources, and make decisions. For example, CMAs are used to determine which areas qualify for certain funding programs. In addition, CMAs can be used to compare population characteristics and trends across different regions. CMAs can also be used to identify potential markets for products and services or to assess the potential of a given geographic area.
Examples of Census Metropolitan Areas
In Canada, some examples of CMAs include:
- Greater Toronto Area (GTA)
- Montreal
- Vancouver
- Calgary
- Ottawa–Gatineau
- Edmonton
- Winnipeg
- Quebec City
Conclusion
Census metropolitan areas are important geographical regions used to analyze population trends and make decisions. They are used by various levels of government, businesses, and other organizations and can be helpful in identifying potential markets and assessing the potential of a given geographic area. References: Statistics Canada – Census Metropolitan Areas The Canadian Encyclopedia – Census Metropolitan Area (CMA)